Itinerary

Day 1: Delhi

Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Accommodation: The Claridges (City Center) (4.5*)

India Gate, Delhi

Day 2: Delhi

Spend the day on a privately guided full day tour of Old and New Delhi which boasts spectacular monuments and holy sites. The city of New Delhi was designed in the typically British colonial style, with tree-lined avenues and colonial bungalows. This tour takes you to the Laxminarayan Temple, a modern Hindu temple, and the famous Gate of India, which is a 42-meter high War Memorial Arch. On route you drive past the Parliament House, the secretariat buildings and the Vice Regal Palace that is now the official residence of the President of India. Visit the Red Fort which was the palace for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's new capital, Shahjahanabad, when he moved his capital from Agra to bring prestige to his reign. Its wall is 1.5 miles long, and varies in height from 60 to 110 feet. At 72.5 meters, the Qutab Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Surrounding the building are many fine examples of Indian artwork dating back to 1193. Afterwards view the Humayun's tomb, which is a complex of buildings of Mughal architecture dating to the Slave Dynasty (1268-1287 AD). The complex is a World Heritage Site and the first example of this type of Mughal architecture in India. This style of mausoleum is similar to the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Accommodation: The Claridges (City Center) (4.5*)

Jantar Mantar

Shahpura House

Day 3: Delhi - Jaipur

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Jaipur. The drive takes approximately 5 and half hours.

From its creation in 1727, the royal families and nobles of Jaipur patronized the craftsmen and artisans of the city. These traditions continue to this day and as a result modern day Jaipur is considered by many as the craft capital of India. Traditional methods are still used to produce many valuable and highly prized items. Using skills passed down through generations, artisans and master craftsmen can be seen in the areas of Ghat Darwaza and Vishveshwar ji. On this fascinating evening walk mingle and talk with the locals whilst sampling some of the region's culinary delights; try pakoras, aloo tiki, samosa and ladoo from some of the city’s most popular street food vendors. Observe local artisans in their workshops; jewelers and silversmiths, gold painters and tie dying experts. The iconic Hawa Mahal also called the Palace of the Winds is the meeting point at which this two and a half hour walk begins.

Accommodation: Shahpura House (Heritage) (4*)

Amber Fort Interior Courtyard

Day 4: Jaipur

Spend the day today in the company of a knowledgeable English speaking guide as you tour the Amber Fort and City Palace of Jaipur, the iconic Observatory and the Hawa Mahal. The magnificent Amber Fort was established in 1592, and remained the citadel of the Kachhawaha rulers right until they moved their capital to Jaipur in 1727. Maharaja Man Singh I created this imposing monument on the remains of an ancient 11th century fort. Since the first half of the 18th century, the City Palace has been the abode to the rulers of Jaipur. The sprawling expanse of the breathtaking palace is a superb harmony of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Part of the palace has been converted into a museum, open to the public, while a section - Chandra Mahal - still remains the home of today’s maharaja. The Observatory of Jaipur is inscribed on the World Heritage List as "an expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological concepts of the court of a scholarly prince at the end of the Mughal period". Within it, the Jantar Mantar is a collection of massive astronomical instruments, built of local stone and marble. Each instrument carries an astronomical scale marked on the marble inner lining, and bronze tablets were also employed. Built in 1799, the whimsical Hawa Mahal - Palace of Winds - which adjoins the Palace has become quite the city icon, with its ornate facade in pale pink, tiered baroque like build, projecting ‘jharokha’ windows and balconies with perforated screens. These were designed so that the mysterious veiled ladies of the harem could look down upon the colourful and bustling bazaars below, remaining hidden themselves. Overlooking busy streets, it offers great views of the city. We feel the Amber Fort is best reached by car, but an optional elephant ride is available should you prefer (cost not included).

Accommodation: Shahpura House (Heritage) (4*)

Ranthambore

Sawai Madhopur Lodge

Day 5: Jaipur - Ranthambore

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Ranthambore. The drive takes approximately 3 hours.

Join a Tiger Tracking Safari to Rajasthan's first Project Tiger reserve, spread over 392 square kilometers. The park is named after the 1,000 year old fort which stands within the reserve. Game viewing for tigers is often successful. The park is also home to sambhars, cheetahs, wild boars, leopards, sloth bears, jackals, and hyenas among others.

Accommodation: Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge (5*)

Ranthambore Fort - Temple

Day 6: Ranthambore

Join a Tiger Tracking Safari to Rajasthan's first Project Tiger reserve, spread over 392 square kilometers. The park is named after the 1,000 year old fort which stands within the reserve. Game viewing for tigers is often successful. The park is also home to sambhars, cheetahs, wild boars, leopards, sloth bears, jackals, and hyenas among others.

The 13th century Ranthambore Fort is in the midst of the jungle, and features the palaces of Toran Dwar, Mahadeo Chhatri and Sameton KiHaveli. Within the fort you will also find the 32-pillar Chhatri, a mosque and the Ganesh Temple.

Accommodation: Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge (5*)

Taj Mahal

The Radisson Blu Agra

Day 7: Ranthambore - Agra

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Agra. The drive takes approximately 6 hours.

Accommodation: The Radisson Blu Agra (4*)

Agra Fort

Day 8: Agra

Today your guide will pick you up from your hotel for a private tour of Taj Mahal, the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his dear wife and queen Mumtaz Mahal. Also visit Agra Fort, built of red sandstone and marble. This great monument of red sandstone dominating a bend in the river Yamuna, two kilometers northwest of Taj Mahal was constructed by the Mughals during 1565-1571.

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Delhi. The drive takes approximately 4 hours.

What's Included:

Guaranteed departure - Tours, Transfers, Flights, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

What's not Included:

Trip Terms & Conditions

Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.

Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.

Tour quotes do not include international air fare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary

Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.

We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.

Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

Hotels

The Claridges

Deluxe Room

The Claridges (City Center) (4.5*) - Delhi

The Claridges, New Delhi is a seamless blend of old-world charm and modern day amenities. The flagship property of The Claridges Hotels and Resorts, located in Lutyen’s Delhi offers its guests close proximity to the business districts and entertainment hubs of the city. The Claridges is situated near the New Delhi Train Station, domestic airport and the international airport. Gracious Indian hospitality enwrapped in traditional values graces discerning travelers from around the world at The Claridges, New Delhi. Dine in elegance at any of the onsite restaurants, serving a variety of delicious dishes. The bar provides the ideal setting for you to relax with a refreshing cocktail. Leisure facilities include a health club, swimming pool, tennis court and shopping arcade.

Shahpura House (Heritage) (4*) - Jaipur

The Shahpura House is built in traditional Rajput style featuring a mixture of Mughal and Indian architecture creating a facade with domes and frescoes. The Shahpura House is a fine example of Shekhawati design. The family portraits add to the charm of this family hotel where tradition still runs strong. Like many historic houses, Shahpura House is a curious mixture of the old and the new. The hotel was once the place for the Shekhawat clan of Rajput who lived here but now it has become a popular accommodation for the tourists.

Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge (5*) - Ranthambore

Located amidst 12 acres of lush gardens, Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge, a 70-year-old hunting lodge exudes a rustic, earthy charm and an air of history. The lodge is a 20-minute drive from the Ranthambore National Park, which is famous for its tiger population. All guestrooms and suites embody rustic style and comfort. From casual, all-day eateries to formal, fine dining, guests can look forward to a wide selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks. Take part in the resort's various recreational activities for fun, adventure, knowledge and relaxation.

The Radisson Blu Agra (4*) - Agra

Positioned within walking distance of the Taj Mahal, the Radisson Blu Hotel Agra boasts an ideal location for travelers. The hotel is 35 minutes from Kheria Airport, 15 minutes from the railway station and three hours from New Delhi, making it easy to explore all that this beautiful area has to offer. Guests enjoy everything from flat-screen televisions to complimentary high-speed, wireless internet access at the hotel. With on-site dining and leisure services such as an on-site spa, the Radisson Blu Hotel Agra has everything you need for an unforgettable stay.

Map

Reviews

India & Area
Jim Allard ,
December 09, 2014"Sunita Singh did an outstanding job
Overall an excellent trip, well carried out.
Outstanding services
The drivers in Delhi and overland from Agra to Udaipur made a great impression. Both were accomplished and accommodating. Access to transport in Delhi and Mumbai on our leisure days was noted and appreciated.
Guides in Delhi, Agra and Udaipur were standouts. The transfer reps all did an excellent job particularly since, on a number of occasions, they were there in the middle of the night.
All accommodations except for Mumbai were excellent. Memories of the culture of India ranks first but a close second in our minds will be the palace hotels.
The Leela Palace offers a peaceful and intimate refuge from the bustle of Delhi. Our reaction to the Nadesar was that it was the best hotel ever. Little did we realize each subsequent hotel in Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur would top that, except for the last in Mumbai.
We were there at an important moment in India's development and the various viewpoints in different cities reflects the promise and challenges facing the country.
Some thought the shock of Varanasi could be better absorbed later in the itinerary, however, the geography preempts that alternative.
Always room for improvement so we would offer the following
Biggest disappointment was the Taj Tower in Mumbai. Small rooms that could be anywhere on the planet. Better choice would be the old wing which matches up better with the overall experience.
Not all of the guides were understandable. They all seemed intelligent and knowledgable but were lacking in delivery of a dialogue. Some speak in a droning monologue that is difficult to follow and includes blinding detail that is soon forgotten.
Two glitches that were remedied: The pickup of the van in Agra had an impossible seating arrangement but that was corrected overnight to our complete satisfaction. The Lake Palace Rooms in Udaipur were initially a problem. One room was lovely but the other two were substandard, although the hotel said they were in the same class. Basically, the better room had the bathroom and closet along the full wall while the substandard alternative used only half the wall resulting in a minute closet, no shower, a single sink and no window. They initially stated that there was nothing better but within an hour the duty manager had found two adjacent rooms on another floor that had the double sinks, separate claw bath and shower overlooking the lake as well as better closet space. They graciously moved us while we were at dinner on the rooftop.
Finally there is always the gouging at shops where the guides get a commission. At a couple of stops this seemed egregious but we are all seasoned travellers and work around that annoyance.
Some of the others may wish to add to these comments but those are my thoughts.
Good memories, thanks"

India & Area
PaulDugdale ,
December 08, 2014"Seamless first class organization and management of our tour.
Sunita Singh did an outstanding job setting up all our accommodations, guides and internal transport."

India & Area
BarbaraBrown ,
November 28, 2014"My Husband and I recently traveled to India the had the most amazing experience..
India is a remarkable country. it is the oldest civilization in the world and we were constantly marveling at the continuity of the culture over the millenniums.
We highly recommend that you book your India trip with the Kensington Tours INDIA Specialist, Senior Sales Consultant Sunita Singh who has lived in India & travelled extensively within the country and neighboring countries.
The entire trip was well planned and ran without a hitch. The guides were excellent, well educated, very knowledgable and extremely solicitous of us. A special recommendation to our driver Rakesh (spelling?) who negotiated the roads and sometimes heavy and interesting traffic with skill and good humor.
This was a private tour comprising of my husband and I. We were most impressed with the way the trip was organized and with the quality and care shown by every Kensington representative along the way.
We visited all the important destinations which exceeded our expectations. A wonderful aspect of traveling in this manner was that our guides were able to take us off the beaten path and we experienced local India in this way.
Our travels took us to Delhi, Varanasi, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur, the temples in Ranakpur and Agra. Varanasi was the highlight of the vacation. It is such a spiritual and special place and well worth the detour. The hotels were all 5 star plus and luxurious. We especially loved The Lake Palace in Udaipur and the Rambagh Palace in Jaipur. The Oberoi in Agra was also amazing.
It was a treat and a privilege to travel through Rajasthan in this way. India is such a special country to visit."

India & Area
Mike Simon ,
May 06, 2014"Kensington planned a wonderful fascinating itinerary for us. All of the guides were so accommodating and flexible, wanting to be sure we were being cared for. India can be a difficult place in which to travel without the proper drivers and guides. Kensington's staff was all top notch."

India & Area
Jim & Gayle Stinson ,
April 21, 2014"Our individualized, private trip to India was just fabulous. Thanks to all for a trip of a lifetime!"